AAN 2022 | Non-pharmacological management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia

Current research in dementia is focusing on patients in the early stages of disease and new disease-modifying therapeutic strategies. Julio Rojas-Martinez, MD, PhD, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, speaks on the importance of optimizing management of patients at later stages of disease. Current medications for neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia have many side effects, so non-pharmacological therapies are recommended as the front-line treatment strategy. Efficacy data supports the use of caregiver education and counselling as a non-pharmacological management strategy. Additionally, individualized programs are recommended for patients with dementia, using tailored activities and therapy sessions to maximize patient autonomy and quality of life. This interview took place at the American Academy of Neurology 2022 Congress in Seattle, WA.